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Hot Picks: The Big Island, Hawaii
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
The Big Island of Hawaii is a great culinary destination. Here are some options for your visit! Click on the picture to find the information you want.
 Where to Stay |
 Where to Eat |
 What to Do |
The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel -
The Big Island - Hawaii
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is an "AAA Four Diamond Property" nestled in natural bluffs overlooking the famous white sands of Hapuna Beach. The remodeled Hapuna Golf Course and the gracious spa facilities provide recreation and relaxation in a expansive understated and elegant environment
This is a view from the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel's swimming pool looking out at sunset to one of the best white sand beaches on the Big Island.
Photo by Michael Reiss
All guest rooms are ocean-facing and graciously appointed with furnishing of rattan and willow. The service is attentive and responsive. The reciprocal privileges with the adjoining Mauna Kea Beach Hotel double the dining and entertainment venues available to guests.
The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel
overlooks the famous white sands of Hapuna Beach.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel
62-100 Kauna'oa Dr.
Kohala Coast, HI 96743
(800) 882-6060
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort - The Big Island - Hawaii
Photo by Michael Reiss
Check out the newly renovated Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort. Simply entering this property, you begin to feel the sense of place surround you. The opened air lobby and registration area share space with a mural and canoe, hearkening back to the days of the ancient Hawaiians. This sense of place is reinforced by the traditional sunset torch-lighting that is offered to guests. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort has one of the best white sand beaches on Waikoloa.
The sunset is breathtaking at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.
Photo by Michael Reiss
To further immerse yourself in the legends of the land, try the "Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort Luau," offered twice a week. Besides the typical fare, including an outstanding rendition of Kalua pork, there were several items that were a surprise to the luau aficionado. An open bar and superb entertainment made this evening memorable and a great value! (Adults $64, Children under 12, $32.) For the Luau mention Guy Kao’o, Banquet Manager extraordinaire, for priority service.
The Royal Luau at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott is one of the Big Island’s Best.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort
69-275 Waikoloa Beach Drive
Waikoloa - Hawaii's Big Island, Hawaii 96738 USA
Phone: 1-808-886-6789
Fax: 1-808-886-7852
Sales: 1-808-886-6789 ext. 7426
Toll-Free: 800-922-5533
The Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort - The Big Island - Hawaii
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort is the latest addition to the
Outrigger family of island Hotels. Formerly an Aston, this newly renovated
property offers all the amenities at an affordable price. It is located
10 minutes south of Kailua-Kona and its beach is the world famous Kahalui
Bay, Kona's best rated snorkeling beach.
The staff is gracious, helpful and full of the Aloha spirit. The property is lushly landscaped, full of interesting paths, rich in history and Hawaiian culture, and it exudes an aura of laid-back hospitality and ohana, the spirit of family.
The Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort has a beautiful pool facing the ocean.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort
78-6740 Alii Dr.,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
(800) 462-6262
Hilton Waikoloa Village - The Big Island - Hawaii
Photo by Michael Reiss
Like no other place on earth, Hilton Waikoloa Village combines tropical gardens, salt water lagoons, exotic wildlife, two championship golf courses, a full service health spa, tennis courts, racquetball, ocean activities and a lagoon where dolphins play and humans learn to appreciate them more fully. The comfortable rooms are spread out among three architecturally unique towers. The beautiful grounds and scenery can be enjoyed from the private lanai of every room. The Spirit of Aloha is felt in the friendly and accommodating staff.
The Hilton Waikoloa Village has
a spectacular setting on the ocean.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Hilton Waikola Village
425 Waikoloa Beach Drive
Waikoloa, Hawaii 96738
808 886 2900
Hot Picks: The Big Island of Hawaii
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Where to Eat
Daniel Thiebaut
Photo by Michael Reiss
Daniel Thiebaut offers the finest in French-Asian
fare using the best of the Big Island and the best from around the world
to produce creative cuisine with distinctive Asian flair. Each dish
is as visually exciting as it is delicious. The service is knowledgeable
and friendly and wine pairing by Peter is a must. The Setting, a Waimea
century-old ""Chock In Store" is authentic and charming.
Here is the visually stunning "Wok-Fried
Sea Scallops with Asian Style Risotto and a Warm Coconut Crab
Dressing" at Daniel Thiebaut.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Hilo Sweetcorn Crabcake
With Lemongrass Coconut Lobster Sauce
Annato Creme Fraiche and Mango Salsa
Togarch Seared Ahi
With Watermelon-Jicama-Tequila Salad
Favorite Entrees:
Wok-Fried Sea Scallops
With Asian Style Risotto
And a Warm Coconut Crab Dressing
Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Tenderloin
Sautéed, Ume Vinaigrette,
Pipinola Salad
Favorite Desserts:
Warm Mango Jubilee
With Coconut Cream Ice Cream
Warm Rhubarb Cobbler
With Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream
Executive Chef/Owner Daniel Thiebaut
(on right) hosts guest Chef Mat Wolf, as part of the "Big
Island Festival"--one of the many special events offered at Daniel
Thiebaut Restaurant.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Daniel Thiebaut
65-1259 Kawaihae Rd.
Kamula, Hawaii 96743
(808) 887-2200
Keei Cafe
Photo by Michael Reiss
If you're headed in the direction of Kealakekua (and even if you're not) you must plan to have a meal at Keei Cafe. Owned and operated by a Brazilian family, the vibes in this small, casual neighborhood haunt are warm and welcoming. The food is so good that locals come expecting to wait. The portions are generous and the prices are right! Even the wine selections, with respectable house wines from Chile are a surprising value.
The beautiful interior of the newly opened Keei Cafe has
koa wood tables and chairs.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Eggplant Rolls - grilled strips of eggplant stuffed with herbed couscous topped with homemade marinara sauce and grated parmesan cheese
Peanut Miso Salad - with grated green papaya slivers on a bed of fresh mixed greens and cucumber spears.
Favorite Entree:
Pork Chops, Chicken, Rib Eye Steak or Catch of the Day served with a Red Thai Curry or White Wine Peppercorn Gravy or Spiced Pineapple Glaze, with rice or whipped potatoes and vegetable medley.
Favorite Desserts:
Tropical Bread Pudding made with fresh bananas and pineapples a la mode.
Chefs Maria and Batista make excellent creative island cuisine
for the Keei Cafe.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Keei Cafe
Located between Mile Marker 112 and 113
on Highway 11
near Kona, The Big Island
(808)322-9992
Hawaii Calls
Photo by Michael Reiss
Do not leave Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort without experiencing their restaurant, Hawaii Calls, preferably for dinner, at sunset. Executive Chef Miles Togikawa, has masterfully conceived and executed dishes, which combine the best of the island and the many Asian and Mediterranean influences that naturally enhance the island dining experience.
The setting is beautiful and one can experience outdoor dining, as well as eat indoors. The bar area has a large selection of tropical drinks and has entertainment nightly.
One should not leave Hawaii Calls Restaurant without trying their famous "Crystal and Orchids" drink served tableside and in The Clipper Lounge and Nalu’s Bar and Grill. This drink, says George Ruiz, Restaurant Manager, features fresh Kona coffee and was created to describe the Big Island of Hawaii. Served with great panache, the drink is delicious and visually exciting!
Here George Ruiz, Restaurant Manager, is serving
his famous creation "Crystal and Orchids" drink
served tableside at Hawaii Calls Restaurant.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Hawaiian style Poke
Seafood Chowder
Favorite Entrees:
Grilled Baby Back Ribs
Seafood Trio
Favorite Desserts:
Warm Mango Jubilee
With Coconut Cream Ice Cream
Warm Rhubarb Cobbler
With Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream
At Hawaii Calls Restaurant the "Grilled Baby Back Ribs"
is a winning entree.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Hawaii Calls Restaurant
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort
69-275 Waikoloa Beach Drive
Waikoloa - Hawaii's Big Island, Hawaii 96738 USA
Phone: 1-808-886-6789
Kawaihae Harbor Grill
The Seafood Bar
Photo by Michael Reiss
Just ask any local where to go for a great meal at moderate
prices and you'll hear Kawaihee Harbor Grill and Seafood Bar echoed
again and again. The ambiance at the Grill is Hawaiiana with
the Ohana feeling extended by all the staff. If you're
lucky enough to meet Popeye Brisson, one of the owners, you're
in for some great stories about how the Grill and Bar
came into being.
Start with their memorable Mai Tai or Kawaii Sunset cocktails in either
location to set the mood for a memorable evening.Wether dining at the
Grill under Chef Aaron Barfield's care or at the Bar,
with Chef Matthew Small at the helm, you will be in the hands
of capable and talented chefs who treat their ingredients with skill
and creativity. It's no wonder that the locals congregate here and recommend
these two places to those visitors smart enough to ask!
Kawaihae Harbor Grill
The Kaiwaihae Harbor Grill's historic setting is the
backdrop for surperb food and service.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Calamari - deep fried and served with spicy Asian
lime and garlic dipping sauce.
Waimea Tomato and Feta with avocado and fresh basil vinaigrette.
Favorite Entrees:
Red Thai Seafood Curry - Fresh catch, prawns scallops and clams in a mild blend of coconut milk, lemon grass, kafffir lime, ginger, peanut and chilis. Served with steamed rice.
Island Style Salad - crisp chilled greens topped with lightly sautéed sesame noodles and then add your grilled favorite ( chicken, fish, steak or seared island poke) served with oriental dressing and garlic bread.
Favorite Dessert:
Macadamia Nut Pie served with locally made ice cream.
The Seafood Bar
Favorite Pupus
Fresh Oysters prepared in various styles including Rockefeller, Hawaiian, Korean.
Coconut Shrimp served crispy and crunchy with li hing mui pina colada sauce.
Seafood Pizza of the Day served with black bean or pesto sauce.
Kalua Pork Quesadilla with avocado salsa.
The Seafood Bar's wholesome and fun setting offers some of
the best food and drink around.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Kawaihae Harbor Grill and Seafood Bar
Located on the Harbor at Kawaihae on the Big Island
(808) 882-1368
Merriman's
Photo by Michael Reiss
Hailed as one of the founders of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine,
Peter Merriman of Merriman's Restaurant uses fresh Big Island
products in a exciting, contemporary manner. His influences are as varied
as the seven continents and his preparations are as delicious as they
are innovative.
Wine pairing orchestrated by Jim, a seasoned member of the waitstaff,
adds immeasurably to the dining experience. The Wine List, by local
wine expert, Chuck Furuya, has interesting selections and is designed
to compliment the excellent Hawaii Regional Cuisine.
Favorite Appetizers:
Appetizer Taster Platter
Includes Corn, Macadamia Nut and Shrimp Fritter,
Kalua Pig & Onion Quesadilla and Poisson Cru.
Vine Ripened Lokelani Tomatoes
and Maui Onion with Blue Cheese, Anchovies and Capers.
Favorite Entrees:
Ponzu Marinated Mahi Mahi
Sautéed with Sesame Grilled Shiitaki
Hearts of Palm & Upcountry Onion Salad
Panko & Kefir Lime Crusted Scallops
Sautéed, Ume Vinaigrette, Pipinola Salad
Favorite Desserts:
Chocolate Phyllo Purse
Baked to Order, Fonseca Port Carmel Sauce Vanilla Ice Cream
.
Merriman's focus on freshness shines throughout
the meal including the memorable "Vine Ripened Lokelani
Tomatoes and Maui Onions with Blue Cheese, Anchovies and Capers."
Photo by Michael Reiss
Merriman's Restaurant
Opelo Plaza
65-1227 Opelo Road,
Kamuela, Hawaii 96743
(808) 885-6822
Oodles of Noodles
Photo by Michael Reiss
Just 10 minutes from the Kona airport is Amy Ferguson Ota's Oodles of Noodles, a great place to begin or end your Big Island holiday! The menu is eclectic and goes well beyond Pacific Rim to encompass the global "pasta-bilities" of the planet. Despite the range of menu offerings, Chef Gary executes each dish with authenticity and finesse. On second thought, start your holiday here. Portions are large, menu possibilities are endless, and you'll want to return before its time to go home!
Favorite Appetizers:
Peking Duck-Asian Slaw Filled Wonton Cups
with Plum Dressing
Oodles' Saimins
Original, Fish Cake, Char Siu, Lup Cheong, Bok Choy, Scallions
Favorite Entrees:
Somen Noodle
Somen Lemon Grass- Coconut Curry Pork
Favorite Dessert:
Coconut Tapioca with Mixed Fruit
Oodles of Noodles has a lively tropical atmosphere.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Oodles of Noodles
Crossroads Shopping Center
75-1027 Henry Suite 102
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
808-329-9222
The Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort Kamaina Terrace Restaurant
Photo by Michael Reiss
Dining at The Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort
Kamaina Terrace Restaurant is a gracious way
to spend a leisurely evening. The setting, either poolside or garden-side
offers ocean vistas, and you are always in earshot of the smooth Hawaii
Quartet, located at the Veranda Bar,that seduces you to linger
for just one more tune, while you digest your delicious repast. The
casual ambiance, the gracious Ohana service, the delicious
island cuisine expertly prepared by Chef Steve Marquard and the
reasonable prices make this a must for the visitor and local alike.
While the current menu offers island favorites with some surprises,
the new menu promises even more selection and variety.
Favorite Appetizers:
Seared Ahi Sashimi - volano spiced and served with
Lilikoi mustard.
The Terrace Sampler - a combination platter of succulent spare
ribs, chicken skewers, and shrimp and crab rolls served with dipping
sauces.
Favorite Entrees:
Rack of Lamb - Herb crusted, served with ginger
orange glaze and roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
Mo a Niu - marinated breast of chicken over a bed of suateed taro leaf,
coconut lemongrass sauce, jasmine rice.
Favorite Dessert:
"Kona Gold" Creme Brulee - rich custard flavored with Hawaiian Coffee Liqueur.
Go for Chef Steve Marquard's "Terrace
Sampler" - a combination platter of succulent spare ribs, chicken
skewers, and shrimp and crab rolls served with dipping sauces. You won't
regret it!
Photo by Michael Reiss
Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort
Kamaina Terrace Restaurant
78-6740 Alii Dr.,
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
(808) 322-3441
Contact Bill Weza, Dir. of Food and Beverage, for special
requests.
Hot Picks: The Big Island
of Hawaii
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
What To Do
The Big Island Festival, the Big Island of Hawaii
The Big Island Festival boasts native dancers
at Kona Village.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Big Island is diverse and offers activities for every taste. Although anytime is a good time to visit, one of the best times to experience the culinary richness of the island is during the Big Island Festival, scheduled in early November.
The Big Island Festival is a celebration of the diversity and quality of the island of Hawaii. It is a food and wine festival with local arts and crafts, song and dance by local performers, cultural experiences and more. It takes place at the festival pavilion and at numerous resorts along the Kona and Kohala coast. Hawaii's culinary stars and Food and Wine Magazine's best new chefs from across the country and invited luminaries from the culinary world furnish the culinary entertainment. You can pick and choose your events or better yet, purchase the package and enjoy the tastes, sounds and sights of the island in a unique and unforgettable way.
The Big Island Festival features luminary chefs
engaged in exciting cooking demonstrations including Hilton Waikoloa
Village's Executive Chef Wilhelm Pirngruber and Chef Charles
Dale, of Aspen's Renaissance Restaurant. Chef Dale and Chef Pringruber
worked with Hilton's Donatoni’s award-winning culinary
team to prepare a special dinner and also conducted a "Celebrity
Chef's Upcountry Farm Tour" as part of The Big Island Festival.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Big Island Festival
1 866 424 FEST
The Kohala Sports Club and Spa, Hilton Waikoloa Village
Photo by Michael Reiss
Enjoy a spa treatment at one of the many world class spas on the island. The Kohala Sports Club and Spa, Hilton Waikoloa Village, offers a full range of treatments but exclusive to their spa is the Orchid Isle Treatment Collection. All manner of treatments use the precious orchid oil with special anti-aging, moisturizing and balancing properties.
The Kohala Sports Club and Spa, Hilton Waikoloa Village
includes a tropical indoorl Jacuzzi.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Kohala Sports Club and Spa
Hilton Waikoloa Village
808 886 2828
The Mauna Lani Spa
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Mauna Lani Spa is dedicated to the cultural traditions of Hawaii. Every aspect has been designed in accordance with Hawaiian healing practices. Experience one of the unique treatments offered in their outdoor treatment area, in one of the nine thatched hales (huts) to introduce you to the spiritual tradition of the island.
The Mauna Lani Spa's beautiful entrance welcomes
you.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Mauna Lani Spa
Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows
808 881 7922
Ke'ano Kolepa, The Spirit of Golf at Mauna Lani
Photo by Michael Reiss
If golf is part of your Big Island experience or if you would like it to be, treat yourself to the spirit of the game. Darrin Gee, founder and senior coach of Ke'ano Kolepa, The Spirit of Golf at Mauna Lani, imparts his Zen-like approach to the game of golf. Whether novice or pro, Darrin will help you develop a feel for yourself which will help you feel the game and develop the inner transformation you need to be your best and play your best. Darrin's seven spiritual principles of golf can be readily applied to the game of life. Reserve a space for his clinic as soon as you arrive to reap the maximum benefits from the wisdom that this youthful guru is so amiably and capably ready to impart.
Darrin Gee coaches a guest with his Zen-like approach
to the game of golf.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Ke'ano Kolepa
The Spirit of Golf at Mauna Lani
808 881 7033